Fighting Mpox Stigma Is Key to Quickly Ending Burundi Outbreak, UNICEF Says

By Emma Farge

GENEVA – A U.N. health official stated on Friday that the mpox outbreak in Burundi could be contained within weeks. However, achieving this goal will depend on securing necessary resources and addressing the stigma surrounding the disease.

The World Health Organization (WHO) declared a recent outbreak of mpox, known for its pus-filled blisters, an emergency in August after the emergence of a new variant. Burundi has reported nearly 600 cases, making it the second most affected country after the Democratic Republic of Congo. Fortunately, the outbreaks are limited to specific areas, and no fatalities have been reported.

Paul Ngwakum, the Regional Health Advisor for Eastern and Southern Africa with UNICEF, expressed optimism about ending the outbreak quickly. He stated, "We can limit the spread, contain the virus, and potentially end the outbreak with no lives lost," during a video conference from Bujumbura. He emphasized the importance of having sufficient resources to achieve this goal.

A significant challenge lies in combating stigma and increasing awareness about mpox. Ngwakum emphasized the need to "dispel myths and calm fears," noting that fear could prevent individuals from seeking help, which would prolong the outbreak.

UNICEF is currently seeking approximately $60 million to support Burundi and five other countries in their response efforts. Ngwakum shared that around two-thirds of those infected in Burundi are children. To address their educational needs, UNICEF is working to implement remote learning initiatives reminiscent of those during the COVID-19 pandemic, allowing children to learn from home or hospitals while in isolation.

Mpox is a viral infection characterized by flu-like symptoms and blisters. Although it is typically mild, it can prove fatal, especially for individuals already suffering from other illnesses or facing malnutrition. In the neighboring Democratic Republic of Congo, over 700 deaths have been reported among 21,835 suspected cases, according to WHO data.

As of now, cases of mpox have been reported in 15 African countries, with the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) warning that the outbreak remains uncontrolled.